Review: Two-Man Advantage by Riley Shane

Title: Two-Man Advantage
Author: Riley Shane
Series: Seattle Marauders, Book 1
Genre: Male/Male Erotic Contemporary Romance
Release Date: January 25, 2011

Blurb from author’s website:

When Professor Nathan Troy walks into his cabin and finds a naked man in his bed, he figures his one-man vacation to snowy Lake Tahoe can’t get any worse. It’s not that Nate doesn’t appreciate the view…he’d just prefer he knew the man in question.

Kyle Harper has come to Lake Tahoe to escape the memories of his former life – one where he was a star hockey player until a career-ending injury shattered his dreams forever. All Kyle wants is peace, and he certainly isn’t going to get it with a prickly, stubborn man waking him up, insisting that Kyle is in his cabin.

An accidental double-booking and a wary compromise puts the two in close quarters. Attraction heats things up, but Nate’s not about to let his libido lead him into making the mistake of getting involved with his unexpected roommate. Kyle, however, seems determined to get under his skin at every turn. Both men soon learn that they can’t outrun desire. But lust is easy; it’s opening their hearts that’s hard. Each will have to let go of the past before they can take advantage of the future the two of them could have together.

Nate and Kyle both end up at the Tahoe resort running from something. Past pain, hurt and heartache. But regardless of what they’re trying to escape these two wonderful heroes are fighters. When something good comes along, no matter how improbable it seems, they’re both willing to take a chance. To grab life and see where it leads. That endeared me greatly to both of them.

Nate’s just out of a relationship that had really died a slow death quite a while ago. More than pain and loss there’s embarrassment and resignation, which are still two difficult things to get over. Kyle’s loss is deeper. His entire life-dream has been shattered. When Kyle gets to the cabin he’s floundering, trying to find his place again.

Watching them come together made me smile. These are two heroes that I rooted for getting their happily-ever-after. Added to the way they complemented each other, filling in missing needs, I would be remiss if I didn’t add that they are sexy-as-hell together.

Two-Man Advantage is a hot, sinful, and incredibly romantic love story. I kept sneaking glimpses while at work, as I just couldn’t put it down! Riley Shane gave us two heroes to fall in love with, to cheer for, and that left me begging for more. Highly recommended!

Grade: A+

Book Link | Loose Id

Review: Master of the Abyss by Cherise Sinclair

Title: Master of the Abyss
Author: Cherise Sinclair
Series: Mountain Masters, Book 2
Genre: BDSM Erotic Romance
Release Date: October 26, 2010


When Jake Hunt uncollared his slave, she committed suicide. Guilt has been a constant companion for him in the two years since and he now only allows himself to commit to a woman for one night. The rest of his time is spent devoted to the mountain lodge that he runs with his brother.

Kallie Masterson had a hard childhood, growing up passed around from family to family, feeling unwanted and unloved. After she finally settled in this small mountain town Kallie worked hard to become a wilderness guide, and is the best at what she does. While proud of her accomplishments, and content with her unfeminine apparel, she’s disappointed that Jake never looks twice at her.

Kallie’s abruptly thrown in Jake’s path when he rescues her from a bar brawl, and then guide business brings her to his lodge. The lodge that caters to an alternate crowd. To be sure she can handle their clientele’s lifestyles Jake invites her to a BDSM night, where he’s shocked to discover a warm, responsive and submissive woman under her ugly clothes.

Fully warned with his standard ‘one night only’ speech, Kallie knows that she can’t get connected, but when one night turns into two, and then more, how long can she hold onto her heart?

The first time I read Cherise Sinclair it was her Club Shadowlands book, first in the Masters of the Shadowlands series, and I loved it so much I quickly glommed up the rest of her backlist (all of which I’d highly recommend). Soon, I’d finished it all, ending with Master of the Mountain, the story of Jake’s brother, Logan. Then I was stuck waiting for Jake’s story, which I was very much anticipating.

I loved delving further into Jake’s history, and the guilt, and feelings that he has over his ex-girlfriend’s death. It’s such an important part of him, and the story, and I thought it was really well handled.

Kallie, though she and others often call her macho, it’s not something I particularly understood. She was a strong female, physically as well as determined to make her own way in the world. But she had a few key vulnerabilities about abandonment, which were very well justified.

I thought that Kallie and Jake were well matched, and watching them work closer to each other was a true joy.

I don’t want to give too much away, but there is a suspense storyline in here too, that definitely plays into the story really well.

I did have a slight moment of disbelief at the end at how well everything was tied up and resolved, but overall it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book.

Ms. Sinclair does some of the best BDSM books I’ve read, and I look forward to what comes next from her!

Grade: B-

Book Link | Kindle | Sony | Loose Id

January 28 Blog Hop Follow Friday Tag Along

 
 
Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Jennifer at Crazy-For-Books.
 
About the Hop: In the spirit of the Twitter Friday Follow, the Book Blogger Hop is a place just for book bloggers and readers to connect and share our love of the written word! This weekly BOOK PARTY is an awesome opportunity for book bloggers to connect with other book lovers, make new friends, support each other, and generally just share our love of books! It will also give blog readers a chance to find other book blogs to read!
 
This weeks question is: "What book are you most looking forward to seeing published in 2011? Why are you anticipating that book?"

Well, my MOST anticipated book of 2011 has already been released. Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning. If I had to pick from upcoming releases though I'd have to go with either Kiss of Snow by Nalini Singh or Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews.
 

 
Follow Friday is hosted at Parajunkee's View.
 
Her question this week is: What is/was your favorite subject in school?

I love learning. Always have. So I really enjoyed all subjects, from art to economics, photography to biology, chemistry to math. My passion has always been language though. English fascinates me, the power that words have to convey meanings and paint pictures. Closely tied with, and in a similar vein, is Anthropology/Archaeology and Linguistics. History, where we came from, what we did, and how we did it absolutely fascinates me. I'll stop here or I could go on for hours on this subject.
 
 
 
 

Calling all 18 and over book bloggers, are you looking for more bloggers like yourself? Well please join in so we can tag along with each other. This is for a specific group and your blog needs to primarily have book reviews and post adult book content. In other words, if you read books like erotic and adult romance and have adult pic, then you can play tag along. Sorry YA readers, but if you read both (I know some of you do) you can tag along also. Just make sure you have both YA and adult romance on your blog.

It doesn't matter what you read if it’s paranormal, suspense, historical, contemporary or mystery, along with erotic with any genre. As long as it is adult then you’re in.


To join in the fun and get details click here. This tag along is hosted by Laurie at Bitten by Paranormal Romance.

If you have an adult book blog, please sign up for this tag along. There are others including myself that are looking for you so please join us.

Waiting on Wednesday: Dreams of a Dark Warrior

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine which spotlights eagerly anticipated upcoming releases!

Dreams of a Dark Warrior is the 11th story in the Immortals After Dark series, and while I think that Ms. Cole has done a really good job of making each one be able to be read as a stand alone, there is an overarching storyline that is probably best read in order. I've enjoyed each book in the series and have been waiting a while now for Regin's Berserker to catch up with her again.

Title: Dreams of a Dark Warrior
Author: Kresley Cole
Series: Immortals After Dark 11
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Pocket
Release Date: February 15, 2011

Book Description (from Goodreads.com):

HE VOWED HE’D COME FOR HER . . .
Murdered before he could wed Regin the Radiant, warlord Aidan the Fierce seeks his beloved through eternity, reborn again and again into new identities, yet with no memory of his past lives.

SHE AWAITS HIS RETURN . . .

When Regin encounters Declan Chase, a brutal Celtic soldier, she recognizes her proud warlord reincarnated. But Declan takes her captive, intending retribution against all immortals—unaware that he belongs to their world.

TO SATE A DESIRE MORE POWERFUL THAN DEATH . . .

Yet every reincarnation comes with a price, for Aidan is doomed to die when he remembers his past. To save herself from Declan’s torments, will Regin rekindle memories of the passion they once shared—even if it means once again losing the only man she could ever love?

Review: Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning

Because everything after this is a spoiler for the first four books, and I truly believe it's a journey that's best enjoyed the way the author wrote it, I'm going to offer up a mini-review first.

It's amazing. Epic. Beautiful. I loved it from beginning to end. If you haven't started this series yet waiting for the end - to avoid cliffhangers - this is the final book, now go and enjoy!  For those that need to know if there's an HEA (and I have a lot of friends where this is a requirement):

There IS an HEA, a very satisfying one.

Title: Shadowfever
Author: Karen Marie Moning
Series: Fever, Book 5
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: January 18, 2011

From Author's Website:

"Evil is a completely different creature, Mac. Evil is bad that believe it's good."

MacKayla Lane was just a child when she and her sister, Alina, were given up for adoption and banished from Ireland forever.

Twenty years later, Alina is dead and Mac has returned to the country that expelled them to hunt her sister’s murderer. But after discovering that she descends from a bloodline both gifted and cursed, Mac is plunged into a secret history: an ancient conflict between humans and immortals who have lived concealed among us for thousands of years.

What follows is a shocking chain of events with devastating consequences, and now Mac struggles to cope with grief while continuing her mission to acquire and control the Sinsar Dubh—a book of dark, forbidden magic scribed by the mythical Unseelie King, containing the power to create and destroy worlds.

In an epic battle between humans and Fae, the hunter becomes the hunted when the Sinsar Dubh turns on Mac and begins mowing a deadly path through those she loves.
Who can she turn to? Who can she trust? Who is the woman haunting her dreams? More important, who is Mac herself and what is the destiny she glimpses in the black and crimson designs of an ancient tarot card?

From the luxury of the Lord Master’s penthouse to the sordid depths of an Unseelie nightclub, from the erotic bed of her lover to the terrifying bed of the Unseelie King, Mac’s journey will force her to face the truth of her exile, and to make a choice that will either save the world . . . or destroy it.

I've always been a little incoherent about this series. Usually the most I've been able to manage is: "It's awesome! Read it! You'll love it! Read it!Read it!Read it!Readit!" I'll try not to devolve into that here today, though there's likely to be some squeeing fan-girl moments.

From the start, Darkfever, this has all been about Mac's journey. When we first joined her she was somewhat sheltered, a little self-centered, full of light, rainbows and love and absolutely comfortable with her place in life – which involved never leaving her small southern hometown. Throughout the previous four books we've seen her worldviews shattered and her convictions tested.

We've also had a lot of questions come up. Honestly, I was a little worried how Karen Marie Moning was going to fit all the answers into a single book and not make it seem like one big info-dump. Then there were my worries that my expectations were so unbelievably high that there was no way she could possibly produce a book that would live up to them. I spent months trying to lessen my anticipation – without success – and then worried some more. Happily, I needn't have worried at all.

Karen Marie Moning manages to answer all the questions that need answering, as well as taking us on one hell of an emotional, action-packed ride. I cried, I laughed, I grinned like mad, cried some more and by the time I was finished I felt like I'd taken every step of this right alongside Mac.

I've spent over four years speculating on so many different aspects of the books, so I was a little worried that I'd have figured it out before hand. And there was stuff I did figure out, which left me cheering and grinning because I'd gotten something right. But there were more things that I didn't even come close to unraveling. Which made me even happier. Karen Marie Moning once said:

"I believe a really good story gives you enough of the facts so that shortly before the truth comes out, you're onto it, and hopefully, when the time is right in this series, you guys will know in your gut whether it's a baby grand or a couple of sofas pushed together, before I yank the sheet off the covered furniture you've been staring at for several books."

And she absolutely succeeded! There's nothing I love more than a series that makes me think, and still doesn't let me get it all before the author shows me what's been hiding just below my vision.

The author deftly shows us Mac's, at times chaotic, thoughts and emotions. They're striking and hers and very, very real. I felt each one with her. And while there is growth in Mac, throughout the series and in this book, I feel that the author managed to do something spectacular in keeping the character true to herself. She is who she always was. Perhaps a little more stripped down, a little more 'savage,' but she's still Mac. The same girl that got off the plane all those months ago looking for her sister's killer.

All in all, it was a fantastic conclusion to the series. For days afterwards the only thing I could say about it was 'It's Epic. With a capital E.' I still feel that way. It had my brain, and my heart, engaged from beginning to end. It's the best series I've ever read. I couldn’t ask for more than that.

I've got to add one other thing – it's a minor spoiler, concerning a major character in the series. I'm putting it in a spoiler button because there's a lot of questions going into this book. Click at your own risk.

I've loved Barrons from the first moment he 'Ms. Lane'd Mac. Mac was often told to judge him by his actions, not words. I took that advice to heart, and that's where Barrons took root. He's not an easy hero. He's not even an anti-hero. He's absolutely comfortable with who, and what, he is. He makes no apologies. Wants no pity. He's demanding, possessive, arrogant and at times savage. He's the baddest thing out there, and knows it. And in the end? He doesn't change. He's still all of these things. He doesn't spout platitudes of love. And yet his love is easily apparent in all his actions. It made me sigh quite honestly. How attuned they are to each other. To me, this short quote just epitomizes that: "I'm the one who will always watch over you. Always be there to fuck you back to your senses when you need it, the one who will never let you die."

Grade: A+

Book Link | Amazon | Kindle | nook | kobo | Borders eBook | Sony | Book Depository | Delacorte Press

Review: Archangel's Consort by Nalini Singh

**Warning** There are going to be spoilers for the first two books, Angels' Blood and Archangel's Kiss, which can't be avoided.

First of all, this cover is absolutely stunning. I found myself staring at it for several minutes. I think it captures Elena beautifully and think that this series continues to have some of the best covers out there.

Title: Archangel’s Consort
Author: Nalini Singh
Series: Guild Hunters, Book 3
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: January 25, 2011



After the devastating events in Beijing, Guild Hunter Elena and her Archangel, Raphael, have returned home to New York. Elena doesn’t expect her return to be easy, after all she is the first angel-Made in the even not-so-recent history of angels. She’s determined to reclaim her place in her city, but knows that there will be a period of adjustment.

What she doesn’t expect is for the world to be under onslaught of terrible natural disasters, where the ground shakes, the waters crash and the winds blow cutting ice. Then shortly after their return vampires begin descending into bloodlust that’s too intelligent to not be calculated. When Raphael shows signs of a foreign rage, the signs are only too clear.

An Ancient rises from Sleep, and the madness gripping the city, and the world, begins to carry the hint of a scent – whispering the name Caliane. Raphael fears his mother will rise as insane as he last saw her, but even more worrying is the knowledge that only one being stands in the way of Caliane reclaiming the son she used to sing lullabies for—Elena.

Elena definitely doesn’t receive an easy acceptance by Raphael’s Seven, even after all she’s been through with her Archangel and his most trusted. She’s still struggling to find her place, and earn their respect. I really enjoyed seeing her continue to work at this. She fights for the right to be by Raphael’s side, and even if some of the Seven are reluctant in giving her their respect, she’s definitely earned mine.

Raphael continues to fascinate me. He’s absolute, powerful, beautiful, utterly immortal with a new vein of mortal consciousness from Elena. Even while his love for her is so wonderfully apparent, he is still autocratic – expecting to be obeyed. But this doesn’t stand in the way of Elena calling him on it, and him examining his own decisions – and her feelings on them. He’s willing to make compromise for the one who holds his heart, and, from Raphael, that is incredibly sexy.

Their relationship continues to grow, to bloom, with them both fighting – sometimes with each other – to give themselves the strong foundation that they need to thrive with each other. I loved seeing each little development, each bit of trust given and accepted. Elena and Raphael are both so strong, unused to relying on others, that to witness them beginning to not only acknowledge, but count on each other, was striking.

I’ve spoken a lot about Elena, Raphael and their relationship. The reason is that I feel this book, even more so than the last two, focuses on them. Yes, there are external things happening in the world, and that aspect of the story definitely doesn’t suffer, but each one of them serves to also further develop these two that I’ve come to love so much.

The events that take place strive to break open old wounds in both Elena and Raphael. They must face even more of their past, breaking themselves open to each other in order to stand stronger together. Elena has to face the difficulties of coming back to her city so changed that she’s stared at, an anomaly, an oddity. Then her family, her father, are suddenly entering back into her life for reasons that hit entirely too close to home. Raphael struggles with the conflicting memories of his mother, struggling against the knowledge that if she has returned still mad he will most likely have to be the one to carry out the execution. As the deaths, and rages, continue to mount, both of them must prepare to face things they never expected.

The last thing that I want to mention is the simple grace that Nalini Singh writes with. With a few words she can convey the beauty of angels flying, the darkness of storms that threaten to overtake the world, and the heart-wrenching reality of facing histories long thought buried.

And, fear not, there’s plenty of Dmitri, Illium, Aodhan and even some Venom. I can’t wait to read more about them, and am greatly looking forward to Dmitri’s book, Archangel’s Blade (isn’t that a sexy title?) due to come out in September 2011.

Archangel’s Consort just added another layer to the love I have for this series. It’s a wonderfully deep addition to Elena and Raphael’s story that is absolutely not to be missed. Nalini Singh continues to enchant and exceed expectations. If you haven’t yet started this series, I urge you to go pick up all three books and dive in.

Grade: A

Book Link | Amazon | Kindle | nook | nook | kobo | Borders eBook | Sony | Book Depository | Berkley Sensation

January 21 2011 Follow Friday Tag Along

 
Follow Friday is hosted at Parajunkee's View.
 
Her question this week is: Who do you cheer for?

Having grown up in Wisconsin, I think it's an easy guess that I cheer for the Packers and the Badgers. And, though, over the years I've cheered for other teams occasionally, my heart has always lay with them.

I love football though. This weekend should be awesome games to watch!

Who do you think is going to the Superbowl? Predictions on who's going to win?
 
 
 
 

Calling all 18 and over book bloggers, are you looking for more bloggers like yourself? Well please join in so we can tag along with each other. This is for a specific group and your blog needs to primarily have book reviews and post adult book content. In other words, if you read books like erotic and adult romance and have adult pic, then you can play tag along. Sorry YA readers, but if you read both (I know some of you do) you can tag along also. Just make sure you have both YA and adult romance on your blog.

It doesn't matter what you read if it’s paranormal, suspense, historical, contemporary or mystery, along with erotic with any genre. As long as it is adult then you’re in.


To join in the fun and get details click here. This tag along is hosted by Laurie at Bitten by Paranormal Romance.

If you have an adult book blog, please sign up for this tag along. There are others including myself that are looking for you so please join us.

Recent

My review of the final book in the Hunger Games trilogy
My thoughts on the Fever series by Karen Marie Moning - before the release of Shadowfever
My Waiting on Wednesday pick - hot and sweet m/m erotic contemporary romance

Waiting on Wednesday: Two-Man Advantage

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine which spotlights eagerly anticipated upcoming releases!


This book is one I've been looking forward to for quite a while. I absolutely loved Riley Shane's debut short story The Taste of Magick (review). Ever since then I've been anxious for another, longer, read by Riley Shane. Now, finally, I'm going to have one. And soon, too.

Title: Two-Man Advantage
Author: Riley Shane
Series: Seattle Marauders, Book 1
Genre: Male/Male Erotic Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Loose Id

Release Date: January 25, 2011

Buy Link!!

(live on Jan. 25 2011)

Book Description (from author's website):

When Professor Nathan Troy walks into his cabin and finds a naked man in his bed, he figures his one-man vacation to snowy Lake Tahoe can’t get any worse. It’s not that Nate doesn’t appreciate the view…he’d just prefer he knew the man in question.

Kyle Harper has come to Lake Tahoe to escape the memories of his former life – one where he was a star hockey player until a career-ending injury shattered his dreams forever. All Kyle wants is peace, and he certainly isn’t going to get it with a prickly, stubborn man waking him up, insisting that Kyle is in his cabin.

An accidental double-booking and a wary compromise puts the two in close quarters. Attraction heats things up, but Nate’s not about to let his libido lead him into making the mistake of getting involved with his unexpected roommate. Kyle, however, seems determined to get under his skin at every turn. Both men soon learn that they can’t outrun desire. But lust is easy; it’s opening their hearts that’s hard. Each will have to let go of the past before they can take advantage of the future the two of them could have together.

Read an excerpt here

Review: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

**WARNING** There is no possible way to discuss Mockingjay without spoilers from both The Hunger Games and Catching Fire (links to my reviews of them). Continue at your own risk. If you're looking or a quick answer on if I thought it was satisfying – that would be Yes.

Title: Mockingjay
Author: Suzanne Collins
Series: The Hunger Games, Book 3
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy/Dystopia
Release Date: August 24, 2010

Katniss Everdeen has done the unthinkable. She's survived the Hunger Games not once, but twice. And, as before, she's in even more danger now than she was when she entered the arena. President Snow holds her responsible for the unrest that continues to grow in the Districts. Not only that, he's apparently made it his personal vendetta to break her. Now, no one is safe, not her District, her friends, and most definitely not those she loves most.

As she navigates an increasingly deadly, heartbreaking terrain, Katniss will struggle against internal and external forces that threaten to defeat her.

I'm caught between counting myself lucky that I started this series when it was complete, and missing out on all the conversations and speculation and discussion that occurred while everyone was waiting for this last installment. I think I missed out a little bit, but I can't deny that I was extremely grateful that I could, after the shocking end of Catching Fire, immediately pick up the final book in the trilogy.

And just as with the previous installments, it pulled me further into Katniss's world and made me even more invested in these characters I've come to love.

I have to say that I finished this book breathless, broken and drained. It squeezed every last bit of emotion out of me throughout the course of it, and did not let up until the very end.

If you think that, after reading the first two books in the trilogy, this mostly a story about love set against the backdrop of a rebellion, I'd disagree. I think this is more a story about a rebellion and war and the people that fight them with a bit of love and romance thrown over the top of it.

We're thrust into District Thirteen with Katniss where she realizes that evil doesn't always reside only on the other side of the line. Where being a pawn is sometimes the only choice you have until there's another one. Katniss continues to deal with an increasing amount of stress from her experiences in the Games, and it shows in her actions.

Part of the reason that this hit me so hard was because of the utterly heartbreaking truth of what had, and was continuing to, happen to Katniss, Finnick, Peeta, Gale and all the others that I'd been on this journey with.

It's not an easy story. It's heart-wrenching, exhausting, and sometimes painful to look at. It pushes you to see things that, I think, a lot of people would rather not examine. But don't get me wrong, this isn't just a book that looks into the darkness. It's also a story of hope and fighting for that hope. The hope for a better tomorrow.

I was absolutely absorbed in Mockingjay from the moment I first opened it to the very last page. Weeks later, I haven't been able to stop thinking about this incredibly deep, thought-provoking, and well written trilogy.


Grade: A


Book Link | Amazon | Kindle | nook | kobo | Borders eBook | Sony | Book Depository | Scholastic

Feel the Heat Catch the Fever

So here we are. A little under FIVE hours from the release of Shadowfever, the fifth and final book in Karen Marie Moning’s hugely addictive Fever series.

I started this series back in October of 2006, when Darkfever was first released. I devoured it. And then couldn’t believe I had a year interim for the next book.

Little did I know that would just be the beginning of a wait that would continue for my foreseeable future.

A little over four years later, and that wait is almost over.

Finally.

I can’t begin to do this series justice. I’ve tried, over the years, to explain what it is that draws me so. And so I’ll try one more time, without spoilers for those that haven’t read them – and I’ll ask that no spoilers be posted in the comments either. I hope to have a proper review up for Shadowfever in the next couple of days – after I’ve read and digested it.

MacKayla Lane is a young woman who has never had to worry about anything more dire than if her favorite shade of nail-polish is going to be discontinued. Her life is good. She has friends, a decent job, lives in beautifully-lush Georgia with her parents, and her sister – who’s currently in Dublin, studying abroad.

Then she does something as innocent as answering a ringing phone. And her life changes, forever. Her sister, Alina, has been murdered in Dublin, horrifically. The Garda are searching for answers, but there just aren’t any. When Mac discovers a cryptic message that Alina left on her cell phone voicemail mere hours before her death, it starts Mac on a quest to find her killer – even if it means going all the way to Ireland to do it.

Once in Ireland weird things start happening. Mac thinks she’s losing her mind as she begins to see things that can’t possibly be there. Delving deeper into the mystery, she learns that things aren’t always what they seem. The Old Ones, faeries to you and I, are still among us. Though the worst of them are imprisoned, somehow they are beginning to escape.

When she runs into a bookstore seeking shelter and a phone to call a cab, she meets the mysterious Jericho Barrons. And soon he becomes the only one that’s ever offered her any sort of answers. But he’s not the only one interested in Mac. V’lane, a Fae Prince, has suddenly started shadowing her.

The boundaries between the worlds are faltering, and the only thing that’s clear is that Mac must find the Sinsar Dubh – a powerful book of dark magic – because if she doesn’t, someone else will. And then they’ll hold the very fabric of both worlds in their hands…

This is the world we’re thrust into. We learn right along side Mac. She knows nothing about her heritage, or the fae when she shows up in Dublin on a rainy afternoon. But the further she digs, the more we come to understand the huge consequences of what is happening.

I’ve followed Mac on a journey of four books, seen her grow and mature, learn and falter. She’s made huge triumphs, and devastating mistakes. She’s been hurt and healed. It has not been an easy, joyful ride, but a heart-wrenching roller coaster of a journey.

And now that we’re just under FOUR hours away, I can’t wait to see the conclusion of this epic tale.

January 14 2011 Blog Hop Follow Friday Tag Along

 
 
Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Jennifer at Crazy-For-Books.
 
About the Hop: In the spirit of the Twitter Friday Follow, the Book Blogger Hop is a place just for book bloggers and readers to connect and share our love of the written word! This weekly BOOK PARTY is an awesome opportunity for book bloggers to connect with other book lovers, make new friends, support each other, and generally just share our love of books! It will also give blog readers a chance to find other book blogs to read!
 
This weeks question is: Why do you read the genre that you do? What draws you to it?

I've had a life-long love affair with the written word. Almost as long as I can remember I've loved to grab a book and transport myself into its pages. I traveled to distant lands, explored forgotten caves, met fascinating people, and always continued to learn. I think it was these combination of things that led me to fantasy, urban fantasy, and paranormal books.




 
Follow Friday is hosted at Parajunkee's View.
 
Her question this week is: Who makes up your non-human family?

I only have Gage now. My beloved, 95lb Chesapeake Bay Retriever. He's a beautiful chocolate brown with a loving, snugly personality. He's just over 5 years old and I don't know what I'd do without him.
 
 
 

Calling all 18 and over book bloggers, are you looking for more bloggers like yourself? Well please join in so we can tag along with each other. This is for a specific group and your blog needs to primarily have book reviews and post adult book content. In other words, if you read books like erotic and adult romance and have adult pic, then you can play tag along. Sorry YA readers, but if you read both (I know some of you do) you can tag along also. Just make sure you have both YA and adult romance on your blog.

It doesn't matter what you read if it’s paranormal, suspense, historical, contemporary or mystery, along with erotic with any genre. As long as it is adult then you’re in.

To join the fun and get details click here. This tag along is hosted by Laurie at Bitten by Paranormal Romance.

If you have an adult book blog, please sign up for this tag along. There are others including myself that are looking for you so please join us.


It's been a busy few weeks here at Touch the Night, so there's a lot if new content.

Recent

I posted some more free ebooks
And more yet...
Another
Last one

I reviewed The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
I reviewed Quinn's Hart by Cassandra Gold
I reviewed Edge of Sight by Roxanne St. Claire
I reviewed Yes, Captain by Rebecca Royce
Review of Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

I added Ilona Andrews reading order and updated all my other reading order lists (at the top in the sidebar if you're looking for quick links to them)
I posted where I finished in challenges I participated in in 2010

BEST OF 2010 LIST

I'm hosting the A to Z Reading Challenge for 2011!

A to Z Reading Challenge Review Link Post
Stop by and join in! I had so much fun with it last year.
Other Challenges I'm participating in
One more Challenge I'm participating in

Waiting on Wednesday January 5: Magic Slays
Waiting on Wednesday January 12: Lover Unleashed


I hope everyone had great holidays!

What are you reading and loving (or not) right now?

One More Challenge - New (to me) Author Challenge

I did this challenge last year and discovered some great new-to-me authors along the way, and since my friend Kat, decided to host it again I thought I'd give it another shot!

The Challenge: Read 20 or more books this year by authors you’ve never read before.

The Rules:
1. Post about the New (to you) Author Challenge on your blog.
2. Use the url from that post below in the MckLinky entry form at the bottom of this post so I know you’re taking part in the challenge and can stop by :)
3. Take the Challenge button (code below) and display it in your challenge post and/or on your blog’s sidebar.
4. On your blog, list the authors’ names and titles of the books you read.
5. Discover some great new (to you) authors this year!!!!
6. (Optional) Rate and/or review the authors’ work, letting other readers know what great discoveries you’ve made.

The challenge is retroactive, so the official dates are January 1, 2011 – December 31, 2011

1. 
   

Waiting on Wednesday: Lover Unleashed

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine which spotlights eagerly anticipated upcoming releases!

I started reading the Black Dagger Brotherhood by J.R. Ward about the time the fourth book was going to be released. I'd resisted for a long time thinking that I did not want to read about vampires in romance. Up to that time I'd only ever read about vampires such as Bram Stoker's Dracula or Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles. Amazon was persistent though in recommending it to me, so I finally gave in one day and started Dark Lover. Turns out it was one of those book-life changing moments.

Now, we're eight full length novels into the series, and I am still just as invested in this series and looking forward to the next book...

Title: Lover Unleashed
Author: J.R. Ward
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: NAL
Release Date: March 29, 2011


Book Description (from Goodreads):

Payne, twin sister of Vishous, is cut from the same dark, seductive cloth as her brother. Imprisoned for eons by their mother, the Scribe Virgin, she finally frees herself-only to face a devastating injury. Manuel Manello, M.D., is drafted by the Brotherhood to save her as only he can-but when the human surgeon and the vampire warrior meet, their two worlds collide in the face of their undeniable passion. With so much working against them, can love prove stronger than the birthright and the biology that separates them?

Review: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Warning first. There is no possible way to discuss Catching Fire without spoilers for The Hunger Games, so be prepared. I will mention, by necessity, some things that occur in the first book of the trilogy. For those that merely want to know if it was worth it after my great review of The Hunger Games, I can unequivocally say Yes. I stayed up until 4am reading this book and was eager to start the final book in the trilogy as soon as I finished. Now, onward and upward…

Title: Catching Fire
Author: Suzanne Collins
Series: The Hunger Games, Book 2
Genre: Young Adult - Dystopia
Release Date: September 1, 2009





After the shattering events of The Hunger Games Katniss finds herself in even more danger. When she and her fellow District 12 tribute, Peeta took a stand at the end of the last Games, forcing the Capitol to choose between two victors or none, they inadvertently became the symbols, and heart, of the brewing rebellion. Naturally this paints a bulls-eye on them for the Capitol. They must navigate a continuously more difficult field to ensure the safety of not only themselves, but their families.

As you may remember, when I finished The Hunger Games I was practically salivating for the rest of the story. I was beyond thankful that I had both of the next two books available to me, and didn’t have to wait a year (or more) to get to the end.

Katniss hardly has a moment to rest, and begin to deal with the trauma that her bout in the Hunger Games had left her with before she found herself within the Capitol’s sight again. The victory tour of the twelve Districts is a yearly, and necessary, event she has no choice in. She’s hardly looking forward to it, but when she comes home to discover President Snow in her home with barely veiled threats, her future looms before her as a terrifying thing.

Now Katniss finds herself with the task of convincing the people of the Districts that she has never had an intention of standing against the powerful Capitol, but that she and Peeta are desperately in love – and it was that which caused her to make that heart-stopping choice. Not only that, but she must convince the President himself, a person that has Katniss’s death in his eyes, a thing even she can see.

Catching Fire is a rocketing-fast, nail-biting, action-filled, heart-wrenching sequel to The Hunger Games. I was immediately drawn into the story, and it did not let me go until I finished, at four in the morning. There’s a wonderful blend of action, world building, and increased character growth and depth. I simply couldn’t get enough of it.

The pacing here is another thing that’s absolutely fantastic. The tension continues to build, with hardly any let up, and at the same time doesn’t sacrifice anything of the character development. The plot is tightly woven and continues to build on the events and machinations only hinted at in The Hunger Games. And I’ll freely admit to being shocked, truly shocked, a few times in the story. There are few things that I love more than a novel that can keep me in suspense.

The love triangle, that appears to be somewhat necessary in young-adult novels these days, is more deeply explored in Catching Fire and while I’m not generally a fan of this particular trope, I have to admit that it’s handled really well here. It’s not only believable, it’s understandable. One of the things I loved was seeing Katniss explore her own feelings and struggling to come to terms with them. While she cares, deeply, she’s not the most emotional person. She is eminently practical and tries to apply that to what she feels, not always with the greatest results. It’s when she’s not thinking about things that I think we get the clearest glimpse into her heart. So while there were times that I wanted to smack her and tell her to stop trying to rationalize everything, I still completely stood by her while she worked through all these very difficult feelings and thoughts.

In The Hunger Games the cast of players was relatively few. Not so here, there are a multitude of secondary characters that we’re introduced to in this novel. Many of them felt like they deserved their own stories told, some were only around shortly, but each one felt fully developed with a complete history and personality. We also revisit those that we first met in The Hunger Games, learning more and yet still left with questions. One of my favorite new characters is Finnick, whom I couldn’t help but love and hope to see much more of.

All in all, Catching Fire more than lived up to my expectations. In fact, it blew them away. I was immediately, once again, enthralled in the world Suzanne Collins created and, upon finishing, couldn’t wait to delve into the final book in the trilogy.

Grade: A

Book Link | Amazon | Kindle | nook | kobo | Borders eBook | Sony | Book Depository | Scholastic Press

Waiting on Wednesday: Magic Slays

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine which spotlights eagerly anticipated upcoming releases!

***Possible Spoilers for the first Four books in the series.***

A couple of weeks ago I finally picked up the first book in the Kate Daniels series. I was immediately hooked! (reviews to come) I couldn't put it down and quickly bought the rest of the books in the series, and any short story, specials and everything else I could get my hands on. Ilona Andrews' crafts a fascinating world that alternates between tech and magic. And you never know which one is going to hit when, because they can't co-exist. Add to that a heroine that I loved instantly - which is saying something for me - and a hero I can't get enough of, well you've got the makings of an instant hit with me. Now I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.

Title: Magic Slays
Author: Ilona Andrews
Series: Kate Daniels, Book 5
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Ace
Release Date: 31 May 2011
 
Book Description (from author's website):
 
Plagued by a war between magic and technology, Atlanta has never been so deadly. Good thing Kate Daniels is on the job.


Kate Daniels may have quit the Order of Merciful Aid, but she’s still knee-deep in paranormal problems. Or she would be if she could get someone to hire her. Starting her own business has been more challenging than she thought it would be—now that the Order is disparaging her good name, and many potential clients are afraid of getting on the bad side of the Beast Lord, who just happens to be Kate’s mate.

So when Atlanta’s premier Master of the Dead calls to ask for help with a vampire on the loose, Kate leaps at the chance of some paying work. Turns out this is not an isolated incident, and Kate needs to get to the bottom of it—fast, or the city and everyone dear to her might pay the ultimate price . . .

Review: Yes, Captain by Rebecca Royce

Title: Yes, Captain
Author: Rebecca Royce
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: Futuristic Romance
Release Date: 7 August 2010


Five years ago Lizbeth had to deal with the sudden disappearance of her captain, and best friend, Acton. In the middle of space, surrounded by nothing but stars, he simply disappeared off the bridge. And that’s when she realized that she was in love with him. Now, finally, she’s located him. In the far reaches of an area they’re not supposed to breach due to alliances, Acton is on a little planet called Earth.

After convincing the acting-captain to let her go in to get Acton, Lizbeth finds herself directly in his path. He nearly runs her over, but doesn’t recognize her, or himself. In fact he thinks he’s a human lawyer named Charles. With no time to explain she transports them back up to their space vessel and hopes he remembers who he is.

Because they’ve got trouble. They’re somewhere forbidden and the dangers increase with every moment. As they reacquaint themselves with one another, and their shared passion they’ll have to outwit a traitor, who wants only their deaths.

Yes, Captain is a quick fun read that centers on a futuristic race from another planet who look and act much like humans. The characters are interesting and when I started reading I wanted to know more.

The plot is quick and keeps moving at a fast pace. Somewhat to the detriment of the story. Things are moving along so quickly that it’s, at times, hard to get to know the characters or understand their motivations. While it’s a fairly simply story and you don’t need a lot of explanation, I wanted more insight into the characters. They were appealing and had a ton of potential. Unfortunately I felt like some of the potential of Yes, Captain was lost due page count. I think it, easily, could have done with a longer format and more depth.

All in all, Yes, Captain is a quick read that’s enjoyable if you aren’t looking for too much world-building or depth.

Grade: C-

Book Link | Kindle | Liquid Silver Books

Other 2011 Challenges

Apparently 2011 is going to be the year of challenges for me! I found a bunch of them all over the place and decided to take part. I did not list all the rules, and some of the challenges have prizes. Also some will have posts up to link to your reviews. I encourage you to check them out!

My Tracking Page

Hosted by: The Betrayed Writer
Rules: Read Ten (10) Books Featuring the Fae

Hosted by: The Betrayed Writer
Rules: Read Ten (10) Books Featuring Witches






Hosted by: Parajunkee's View
Rules: Read Twenty (20) Books Featuring a Vampire as a Main Character






Hosted by: Parajunkee's View
Rules: Read Twenty Books that have a Shifter as the Main Character






Hosted by: Book Chick City
Rules: Read Twenty-Four Horror or Urban Fantasy Books

Hosted by: Bitten by Paranormal Romance
Rules: Read Twenty Adult Paranormal Romance Books

Hosted by: Darlyn and Books
Rules: Choose One of the Following Levels of Fantasy Books to Read

• Curious – Read 3 Fantasy Fiction novels
• Fascinated – Read 6 Fantasy Fiction novels
• Addicted – Read 12 Fantasy Fiction novels
• Obsessed – Read 20 Fantasy Fiction novels

Hosted by: BA Reading Challenges
Rules: Choose One of the Following Levels of Steampunk Books to Read (I chose Geared)

• Geared – Choose 5 books to read
• Cogged – Choose 15 books to read
• Goggle Mad – Choose 30 books to read
• Victorian Lord/Lady – Choose 50 books to read
• Steampunked! – Choose 75 books to read
For extra hard challenges
• Zephyr Pilot – Choose 76-125 books to read
• Inventor – Choose 126-200 books to read

Hosted by: BA Reading Challenges
Rules: Choose One of the Following Levels of Dystopian Books to Read (I chose Asocial)

• Asocial – Choose 5 books to read
• Contagion – Choose 15 books to read
• Soldier – Choose 30 books to read
• Drone – Choose 50 books to read
• Conditioned – Choose 75 books to read
• For extra hard challenges
• Brainwashed – Choose 76-125 books to read
• Totalitarian – Choose 126-200 books to read

Hosted by: Midnyte Reader
Rules: If you feel literarily negligent dust off those old, classic books, stories or plays you've always wanted to read and join me in the 2011 Dusty Volumes Reading Challenge. Books must be published prior to 1960!






Hosted by: BA Reading Challenges
Rules: Choose One of the Following Levels of Books to Read that you CURRENTLY have in your TBR Pile

• Tempted – Choose 5 books to read
• Trying – Choose 15 books to read
• Making A Dint – Choose 30 books to read
• On A Roll – Choose 50 books to read
• Flying Off – Choose 75 books to read

Hosted by: The Unread Reader
Rules: Read Twelve Legally Obtained Free e-books


If you made it this far - Congratulations! (and wish me luck please) LOL

A to Z Challenge 2011 Reviews and Discussion Page Live!!

Review Links and Discussion Page

Link to the Sign Up Post

The Rules:

1. Challenge begins on January 1st 2011 and runs through December 31st 2011.

2. Read 26 books which titles begin with each letter of the alphabet.

• You may ignore articles like A, An and The at the beginning of the title.
• For the letter X, any book title with the letter X in it is acceptable if you can't find on that begins with X.
• A book only counts one, so you can include a re-read the first time you read it this year.

A - Archangel's Consort (Guild Hunter, Book 3) by Nalini Singh (January 23)
B -
C -
D - Dreamfever (Fever, Book 4) by Karen Marie Moning (January 13)
E -
F - Faefever (Fever, Book 3) by Karen Marie Moning (January 2)
G -
H -
I -
J -
K -
L -
M -
N -
O -
P -
Q -
R -
S - Spider's Bite (Elemental Assassins, Book 1) by Jennifer Estep (January 4)
T - A Tapestry of Spells (Nine Kingdoms 2, Book 1) by Lynn Kurland (January 8)
U -
V -
W - Web of Lies (Elemental Assassins, Book 2) by Jennifer Estep (January 5)
X -
Y -
Z -

Updated: January 24, 2011

Free eBooks 21 Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!!!

I wasn't planning on doing a post today, but got online and realized there were quite a few new books for free on Amazon. The Samhain books are available until at least the 14th, so make sure you go grab them!!

I'll be off to enjoy football for the rest of the day, hopefully watching my Wisconsin Badgers win in Pasadena!

Kobo Books free ebooks.

Borders free ebooks

And Barnes and Noble Free ebooks

All Romance Free eBooks.


Amazon

Samhain Publishing
Rough Cut by Mari Carr (free until 1/14/2011)
Oleander House: Bay City Paranormal Investigations 1 by Ally Blue (free until 1/31/2011)
Going All In by Jess Dee (free until 1/15/2011)
The Bite of Silence (Biting Love 3) by Mary Hughes (free until 1/15/2011)
Make Mine Midnight by Annmarie McKenna (free until 1/15/2011)
With This Ring: A Tabloid Star Story by T.A. Chase (free until 1/15/2011)

Historical Romance
Mistress by Mistake by Maggie Robinson

YA
Don't Die, Dragonfly by Linda Joy Singleton

Urban Fantasy
Hunted By The Others by Jess Haines

Historical Fiction
The Queen's Dollmaker by Christine Trent
Heidegger's Glass by Thaisa Frank

Historical Thriller
Medicus by Ruth Downie

Thrillers
The Perfect Woman by James Andrus

Contemporary Fiction
Two Rivers by T. Greenwood